Principal FPGA Engineer Are you an experienced FPGA or firmware engineer looking to work on cutting-edge technology in defence, aerospace, and security?

Learn more about the general tasks related to this opportunity below, as well as required skills.
Do you want to be part of a highly skilled team designing systems that make the world safer?
Then look no further…
We're looking for a Principal FPGA Engineer to join our established engineering team delivering advanced electronic systems across defence and related sectors. You'll play a key role in developing high-performance firmware solutions used in mission-critical environments, contributing to innovative technologies across aerospace, defence, transportation, security, and space.
As a Principal Firmware Engineer, you'll take ownership of FPGA-based design and development, working closely with multidisciplinary teams across systems, hardware, and software engineering. You'll contribute across the full development lifecycle, from requirements through to validation, helping ensure high-quality, reliable products.
In this role, you will:
Design and develop firmware using Hardware Description Languages (VHDL, Verilog, or SystemVerilog)
Lead or contribute to firmware architecture and design decisions
Verify and validate firmware using simulation and testbench environments
Work closely with systems, hardware, and software engineers to deliver integrated solutions
Support requirements definition, design reviews, and technical decision-making
Contribute to continuous improvement of firmware processes (automation, documentation, scripting)
Use industry-standard tools for FPGA and system-on-chip development
Support integration activities, including occasional work at customer or test sites
Deliver work to agreed time, cost, and quality standards
We're looking for a collaborative and proactive engineer who enjoys solving complex problems and can operate with a high level of autonomy.
You'll bring:
Strong experience developing firmware for FPGA-based systems
Expertise in VHDL, Verilog, or SystemVerilog
Experience with simulation and verification tools (e.g. ModelSim, QuestaSim)
Solid understanding of digital design and hardware/software integration
Ability to contribute to or lead design and architecture activities
Strong communication skills and experience working in multidisciplinary teams
Eligibility to obtain UK Security Clearance
Nice to have:
Experience in defence, aerospace, or other safety-critical industries
Knowledge of protocols such as PCIe, Ethernet, AXI
Experience with verification methodologies (e.g. OSVVM, UVVM)
Familiarity with tools such as MATLAB, DOORS, or Linux environments
Experience mentoring junior engineers or leading small teams
You'll benefit from world-class training, development opportunities, and the chance to work alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry.
You'll also receive a package that includes:
Competitive salary
Coaching, training, and ongoing career development
Pension with employer contributions
Generous holiday allowance, increasing with service
Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working and early finish on Fridays
Due to the nature of this role, candidates must be eligible for UK Security Clearance. This includes providing evidence of identity, right to work in the UK, and employment/education history. xrexnqw Some roles may require additional vetting.